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THE RIVERSIDE LIGHT
NEWS AND HAPPENINGS OF THE
RIVERSIDE CONGREGATIONAL
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
Summer 2008
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FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
Max Karl Ernst Ludwig Planck was a German theoretical physicist born in 1858 to a traditional intellectual family of law and theology professors. He is the founder of quantum theory, one of the most important contributions to physics in the 20th century. He is often referred to as being “the lonely physicist.” It seems that most of the scientists of his generation rejected his theory as being a brilliant but quirky ideas that didn’t work.
He realized that he was unable to convince the scientific establishment of his age, but he continued to believe in it. by the time of his death in 1947, his theory was “the theory” held by the establishment. Some ideas just take time.
On a warm June Friday afternoon, the Riverside Family Center experienced our first Max Planck moment. The Afterschool with the Arts program was started as a ministry of the Deacons and Pastor t make a difference for children in Riverside. In order to get the proper funding, we incorporated. We always offered the promise that we would change children’s lives through music. The theory is that children who develop proficiency on an instrument will also have a major building block of psychological well-being for adult life. They will become resilient adults.
Well, the final proof is years away for our kids. However, even the first hurdle has also been elusive. Lessons alone do not a musician make. Concerts have always been recitals, giving evidence that the child is taking lessons. On Friday the 13th groups of children, who volunteered, performed for a family cookout and they went pas the recital stage. They played. They were encouraged by their last concert performance but this time they were playful and surprisingly CHCcompetent. Even though I am a big believer in the program, I was taken by surprise. The ensemble, a rock band, played like adult musicians.
It will be many days in the future when these will reap the full psychological benefits of the program. However, if Max Planck were here to give advice, he would tell us “Look, you have accomplished the first step. You will eventually see the final step. Some ideas just take time .” Max Planck lived to the ripe old age of 90. He gradually saw the vindication of his theory. We have a lot to look forward to.
Gene
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FROM THE
THE BOARD OF DEACONS
Save the Dates! On Sunday, September 14th, the first day of Sunday School, and on he 21st and again on October 12th we are planning some special nuances to our Sunday worship services and fellowship times. While we cannot share the details at this time, we do wish that you mark your calendars to be sure you attend and feel free to bring along your friends.
WORSHIP SERVICE AUGUST 17TH
Due to the success of last year’s service held in the Bloomfield Room, the Board of Deacons is once again assisting Reverend Gen in preparing a worship service in the cooler environment downstairs. Last year’s worship theme was “water”, so it is only fitting that this year’s theme will be “wind”. For all members and friends of our church who have concerns with climbing the stairs, please be reminded that the back door (East Street entrance) will be open for easy access. This entrance requires the use of only two stairs. And we promise to have someone available to lend a hand if needed. We do hope all will join us.
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RIVERSIDE FAMILY CENTER
Well, summer has arrived and the children of the Family Center celebrated the last week of school with an exciting year-end party. On June 13th, the enthusiastic and energetic kids partied with their friends and families with a good old fashion barbeque and some fun filled water games. But the best part was a one hour entertainment special where many of the children performed on their instrument of choice partnering with their instructor and in some cases a parent or two. This past school year was a great one, and plans are already underway for a wonderful 2008-2009 program. Many thanks to our staff; Director, Jessica Clark, Head Teacher, Laurie Dias, Teacher Assistants, Marie King and Trish Lewis, Drivers, Malcolm Rochford and Doug Miller, and of course, to our specialists. See you all in September! If you would like some information as to what the Family Center can offer your child, please pick up a flier in the narthex, or call the Jessica at 433-2822. Registrations for September will be accepted on August 20th, 21st and the 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. And don’t forget to use the $15 off coupon for early registration.
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The Board of Trustees
PLEDGES
Some of us will be sticking around home this vacation season yet others will be traveling to areas close by and further away. Whatever your plans may be, we ask that you keep your home church in mind keeping your pledge up to date. Even though church activity slows down during July and August, there is no such “time off” from our financial obligations. Thank You!
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CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Many thanks to all who helped in Sunday school during the year. We are grateful to all who gave of their time. Our new Sunday School year will begin on September 14th and we’re always looking for volunteers to help out each Sunday. The curriculum is easy to follow and teach (training will be provided). If you can lend a hand for even one Sunday, Or more, (for about 45 minutes) we’d be happy to hear from you. If interested, please speak with Rev. Gene or Nicole.
CANDIDATES CONFIRMATION
If you would like your child to be enrolled in the next confirmation class, please speak with Reverend Gene by September 1st. Children should be at least 13 years of age by the time of enrollment. Also, we could use some help with mentoring the candidates so if you would like to work with the candidates let us know.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Get ready for a fantastic Vacation Bible School jointly sponsored by St. Mark’s Episcopal and Riverside Congregational Churches. The morning sessions are specifically designed for children ages kindergarten through middle school and will be held at St. Mark’s on July 7th through July 11th from 9:00 til noon. We are also in need of teen volunteers to help the teachers in class. If you are interested in registering your child, or would like to be a volunteer, please call the church office at 433-2039 or pick up a registration form in the narthex.
Click her for Notes Notables on page 2